This quote reflects a common experience many writers face—the delay between starting their craft and actually submitting their work to publications. Anthony Doerr, the author, is indicating that he didn't begin actively sending out his writing until he was around 25 or 26 years old.
The deeper meaning of this statement lies in the idea that it's often a journey of self-discovery before one feels confident enough to share their work with the world. This period can involve refining skills, gaining confidence, and finding personal voice as a writer. It also suggests that success doesn't always come quickly; sometimes it requires patience and perseverance to reach the point where one is ready to take that crucial step of submission.
Anthony Doerr is an accomplished American author known for his poignant storytelling and lyrical prose. He has won numerous prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2015 for "All the Light We Cannot See," a novel set during World War II that explores themes of resilience and human connection. His work often intertwines historical narratives with deeply personal stories, making him a respected figure in contemporary literature.